Motorsport
Kush Maini secures first F2 win of 2026 with Barcelona sprint triumph
The Indian driver led every lap after a lightning start to claim his third Formula 2 career victory.
Kush Maini (Photo credit: Wordswork)
Indian racing driver Kush Maini claimed his first Formula 2 victory of the 2026 season after producing a dominant display in the Sprint Race at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya.
Representing ART Grand Prix, Maini controlled the race from the opening lap and crossed the finish line more than seven seconds ahead of the competition. The result marked the third Formula 2 win of his career and provided a significant boost to his championship challenge.
Starting from second on the grid, Maini made an excellent getaway and overtook reverse-grid pole sitter Noel Leon before the first corner. Once in front, the Indian driver quickly established control of the race and steadily extended his advantage over the chasing pack.
Throughout the contest, Maini combined strong pace with effective tyre management, avoiding incidents while several battles unfolded behind him. His consistency allowed him to build a comfortable margin that no rival could threaten.
Gabriele Mini finished second after making his way through the field, while championship contender Nikola Tsolov completed the podium in third place. Noel Leon took fourth position after losing the lead at the start, while American driver Colton Herta rounded out the top five following a late-race error that cost him a podium opportunity.
Championship boost ahead of feature race
The victory lifts Maini from 10th to eighth in the Formula 2 drivers' standings.
The 2026 campaign marks Maini's first year with ART Grand Prix and his fourth season in Formula 2.
Alongside his F2 commitments, he continues to serve as a reserve and test driver for the Formula 1 team Alpine F1 Team and also holds a reserve driver role with Mahindra Racing.